The City skipper is in the best form of his career and tonight his side will be tested to the maximum, to see how seriously the Bluebirds' challenge for Premiership status has really become.

Wigan were crowned champions of the Third Division last season, a full 19 points ahead of Cardiff, and have started this season in the same fashion, currently lying in second place behind Sheffield United at the top of Division One.

But Kavanagh is champing at the bit and said: "We'll be up for this game. Wigan will certainly not relish coming here tonight, knowing that our home form has been exceptional this term.

"Wigan were very, very solid throughout last season, and it seems they have carried on in this vein this term in Division One.

"Geoff Horsfield can score goals, and Wigan also have players that deliver quality crosses into the box, so we need to be mindful of these dangers."

City supporters have seen Kavanagh at his peak this season after an indifferent term in Division Two. Now, with an extra spring in his step, he is playing to his full potential.

"We believe in the football we are playing, and just as important the fans believe in it too," said the 29-year-old, "Even when we have not won this season, the supporters are still pleased with the football they have been watching.

"The quality of football being played at the moment has been excellent and it's enjoyable to play in.

"We do have a sense of over-confidence that sometimes shoots us in the foot. A perfect example of that is the West Ham United match.

"We found ourselves 2-0 up and started looking for number three. Last season we would have shut up shop.

"Every game so far this season, we have started well. And we have been trying to address the goals that we have been conceding lately.

"The build-up play has been excellent, and we know we can score goals, and maybe we have left the back four a bit isolated in the past, but against Crewe on Saturday we sorted a couple things out and that was pleasing."